Mugshot of Japheth Roberts. Photo Credit: THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
ST. CROIX — The V.I. Police Department's Economic Crime Unit has made a breakthrough in a case involving fraudulent activities against the Government of the Virgin Islands' Economic Stimulus Account.
According to the VIPD, an investigation initiated on June 9, 2023, following a complaint from the Office of Management and Budget, uncovered that more than $500,000 had been illicitly withdrawn from the 2020 Economic Stimulus Account over an unspecified period.
The inquiry culminated in the issuance of an arrest warrant for 37-year-old Japheth Roberts. He was subsequently detained in the state of Georgia on March 16, 2024, and remained in custody pending extradition.
Upon successful extradition to the U.S. Virgin Islands, Roberts was formally handed over to the custody of ECU detectives on Tuesday. He now faces serious charges related to the fraudulent claims against the government fund.
Unable to post bail of $100,000, Roberts was remanded to the Bureau of Corrections to await his Advise of Rights Hearing.
The VIPD encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious financial activities. Community members with information relevant to this or any other financial crime are urged to come forward, as their cooperation is vital in ensuring justice and the integrity of public assets.
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